World
September 25, 2024 00:08
new york - US President Joe Biden received a lukewarm reception at the UN summit in New York as conflicts in Lebanon and between Israel and Hamas continue. Biden called on the warring parties to pursue diplomacy and cease violence.
US President Joe Biden addressed world leaders at the General Assembly in New York for the last time on Tuesday. His speech, eagerly awaited amidst escalating conflict in Lebanon, lacked a strong stance. Instead, he emphasized that a broader war is 'in no one's interest' and advocated for a diplomatic solution. 'We are working hard on that,' Biden said, receiving a tepid applause.
Regarding the Gaza conflict, Biden urged the warring parties to agree to a ceasefire. A proposal for a ceasefire from the US, Egypt, and Qatar has stalled.
Analysts attribute the subdued reactions to Biden being seen as outdated. This was expected to be his last major international speech after withdrawing from the Democratic presidential race last summer.
Biden used the opportunity to highlight his achievements, including the end of US military presence in Afghanistan. He mentioned the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, the deadliest military conflict for the US since Vietnam. Biden acknowledged the 13 American troops who lost their lives and the billions of military equipment seized by the Taliban.
The Biden administration's foreign policy track record has been contentious. Besides the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal, Russia invaded Ukraine during Biden's term, and China's aggression towards Taiwan escalated. Additionally, Israel found itself in conflict with Hamas, the Houthis, and Hezbollah, all Iranian allies.
The US approach towards Tehran has faced criticism, particularly for releasing frozen billions in an attempt to moderate relations. Critics argue this emboldened Iran and its allies against Israel.
In a poignant moment at the end of his UN address, Biden emphasized that this was his final speech to the world leaders. 'Some things are more important than staying in power. We are here to serve the people, not the other way around,' Biden stated, receiving a warm applause.